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A young, lively city centered around Waikato University, with nice cafés, green parks and the impressive Hamilton Gardens, but above all the ideal starting point for a day trip to the world-famous Waitomo Caves.
About a two-hour drive from Piha, a good stopover on the trip along the west coast.
A practical stopover site in the city, just a short drive from downtown. $20 per person/night. Central location, clean showers and toilets, kitchen available, quiet, well-kept surroundings. Downside: facilities fairly basic, not especially charming.
Verdict: A practical, functional campground for one night, offering little comfort for longer stays.
One of the North Island's best-known natural wonders. The cave system consists of several caves, the best known being the "Waitomo Glowworm Cave," famous for its glowing glowworms. About an hour from Hamilton, ideal for a day trip.
The tour itself was impressive, even though no photos or videos were allowed. First we walked with the group through the limestone caves while our guide explained things, at one particularly high spot he even sang "Amazing Grace," the acoustics there were incredible. Afterward we continued on to the boat ride through the Glowworm Cave, the tiny lights glowing in a clear, bluish tone. Sadly the ride only lasted about five minutes, beautiful but far too short.
Cost: €30 per person.